With the perceived increase in social inequality, the issue of social justice has once more become a significant feature of political und public discussions. The recently introduced so-called Elterngeld (parental allowance) is one example which triggered a controversial debate. In a nuthshell, this is reflecting the wider dispute over the power of redefining justice with regard to gender relations. This paper discusses how the requirements and expectations of the population with regard to social justice have in fact become more heterogeneous and complex than actual political lines of conflict have otherwise portrayed. The paper thus advocates broader social discourses: if a new, socially acceptable compromise is to be found, then principles of redistribution and standards of social justice need to be realigned. The paper is based on the results of an explorative study of divergent perceptions of justice in society on the basis of document analyses and expert interviews.